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Many myths persist today about what causes acne despite a lack of scientific evidence to support those myths.

While doctors are still not exactly sure what causes stubborn acne in some while others are not affected, there are many persistent myths about acne. Understanding what is causing your acne will allow you to take the appropriate measures to treat your acne and keep it under control.

Here are the Top 5 myths about what causes acne:

Myth #1: Poor hygiene or dirty skin causes acne.

While bacteria in the skin is involved in the creation of acne, and antibiotics can help improve acne, lack of cleanliness is not the actual cause for the acne breakouts. Acne is caused by excess oil and dead skin cells that clog the pores and build up under the skin. Cleansing your skin of oil and debris with a gentle cleanser that kills the acne bacteria is important for preventing breakouts, but it’s not necessary to use harsh cleansers or abrasives. Scrubbing too hard or washing your face too often can irritate and dry out your skin, and can actually make your acne worse.

Myth #2: Acne is caused by chocolate or other foods.

Chocolate has long been blamed for causing acne, along with pizza, soda and french fries; yet studies have shown no scientific evidence that this is true. The myth that chocolate and fast food are what causes acne may persist because many teens have acne and these are also favorite foods for teenagers. While no particular food can be blamed for causing acne, some people may find they react to certain foods and can try avoiding them to see if there is an improvement in their acne.

You acne is not likely to simply dissapear by following a healthy diet, it is important to eat foods that contain the nutrients your skin needs to be healthy. Many have found improvement in their skin when avoiding foods with hormones and antiobitics such as dairy and meat, or by switching to organic.

Myth #3: Everyone outgrows bad skin and you don’t need to treat it.

While it’s true that most people with acne find it improves with age and may clear up completely by their early 20s, there are many others that do not outgrow their acne. It is a myth that simply being a teeanager is what causes acne and that it will just clear up in time. It’s important to treat acne in your teens to prevent permanent scars that can be difficult or impossible to remove later. Today there are many acne treatments available both over-the-counter and stronger medicines from a dermatologist, and there is no reason to simply wait out your acne.

Others unfortunately find their acne worsens or shows up for the first time in their 20s. This adult acne can be difficult to treat, and when severe, needs an aggressive approach. You will not outgrow adult or chronic acne. While it cannot be cured, it can be managed successfully.

Myth #4: Acne is caused by using makeup.

In the past, makeup contained oil and ingredients that clogged pores and caused skin to breakout, but today there have been many improvements in cosmetics. There are cosmetics created to prevent breakouts and many have added ingredients that actually fight pimples. Look for makeup that is oil-free and labeled “noncomedogenic” which means the product does not cause comedones or acne from clogged pores. Another term you may see is “nonacnegenic” which is also safe for acne prone skin. Using some makeup can improve the appearance of your skin will you are getting it under control and can be a real boost to your self-esteem.

Myth #5: It is a good idea to pop pimples.

Attempting to pop cysts can spread the infection deep within the skin which can lead to severe scars. Although it is difficult not to pop pimples, its best to speed up the healing by treating them with acne medications. For severe cysts and nodules, its best to be treated by a doctor who can remove them safely.

By understanding the true causes of your acne, you can take appropriate measures to treat your skin and keep it under control.

Looking for some anwers to Stubborn Acne? Visit Joy Byers’ skin care website Healthy Skin Resources and finally learn what really causes acne and discover some Real Solutions for Acne.

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